Loretta Kaltenhauser

I strive to combine the aesthetic feel of ancient and modern using a bold mix of styles, ranging from weathered and organic to sleek and contemporary.

Using brushes and palette knives, I create works that are either abstract or have landscape elements to them.

My process starts out very spontaneously, then becomes more detailed as the image presents itself.

My goal is not to document subjects or to make statements, but to make an emotional connection with the viewer allowing them to explore their own spirit and to inspire them as well.

I love that quote by Jack London... “ You can’t wait for inspiration. You have to go after it with a club”.  Although I’m absolutely elated that I can create full time now, I certainly do not wake up every morning inspired skipping into the studio. I find more often than not my inspiration comes after I’ve actually started a piece and then it kicks in big time. Regardless of how I feel any given day, I just go into the studio and paint. It’s amazing how often I may have a bad start to the morning and then by noon my spirits are soaring and I see the day in a brand new light.

Acrylic on canvas using brushes and palette knives.

Self-taught : I began my artistic journey seven years ago after working in an unsatisfying office environment for several years. My husband and sister are professional artists and I had always craved an outlet for my creativity. Then I began having dreams where I was standing in front of a blank canvas, and paint would magically appear on it. The dreams became more detailed and continued for weeks. My husband John encouraged me to quit my job which I happily did, we sold our home in Toronto and moved to Cobourg, a small town an hour away. John built a studio for me and I began experimenting with acrylics and various other texture mediums. I was in heaven and knew this was my calling. Mind you the paint didn't magically appear on the canvas. I put in the hours enjoying every minute of it. The Universe, my inner guidance system, whatever, was sending me a message in my dreams and I'm so very grateful I listened.